School board approves school‑resource deputy contract with 'floater' to expand canine and event coverage

The Flagler County School Board on July 22 voted to approve a School Resource Deputy agreement that includes the option to add a floater SRD to provide additional coverage during events and to allow canine coverage to reach more campuses.

Christy Chong, School Board member, moved to approve the SRD agreement “with a floater,” with Lauren Ramirez seconding the motion. Board members voted to approve the agreement; the motion passed 4–1.

Supporters told the board the floater would not create an additional deputy for every campus but would permit flexible deployment of canine Nitro and provide extra coverage for special events. Board members and representatives from the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office discussed operational uses for the floater, including allowing a canine handler to bring Nitro to elementary campuses and to respond where needed during the school day.

Opponents raised concerns about the recurring cost of the floater and whether the expense is prudent given uncertain state and federal funding streams, including Title IV. One board member warned the annual cost could exceed budget savings and urged caution; other members said the arrangement includes language identifying the floater as a one‑year trial to be reevaluated after the school year.

Board members and staff said they will monitor operational use and costs in collaboration with the sheriff’s office and local partners, and evaluate the arrangement after the trial year. Presenters also acknowledged the county commission and city partners contribute resources that support school safety programs.